Uncovering Minor Cannabinoids: What is Cannabichromene (CBC)?
CBD is the most referenced cannabinoid from industrial hemp that are top of mind when people talk about hemp-derived cannabinoids However, the industrial hemp plant produces over 100 different molecules that interact with the endocannabinoid system. As our understanding of industrial hemp deepens, we are discovering the benefits of lesser-known cannabinoids, for example, CBC (Cannabichromene).
As we’ve explored in previous blogs, minor cannabinoids, CBG and CBN, are increasingly being included in product formulations alongside CBD, the most prominent cannabinoid molecule in industrial hemp. Thoughtfully combined, these intentional cannabinoid blends are designed to offer more well-rounded effects. Finding its way to shelves, CBC is one of the many minor cannabinoids being explored for product development.
What is CBC?
CBC stands for Cannabichromene and is considered to be the fourth major cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant. CBC is a dynamic non-psychoactive cannabinoid that works by activating the CB2 receptors found throughout the body. Discovered in 1966 by Dr. Raphael Mechoulam and Y. Gaoni, CBC is only recently finding its way onto product ingredient lists.
Cannabis plants do not naturally produce high enough amounts of CBC for efficient isolation. The easiest way to isolate CBC is via CBGA, most frequently found in young hemp plants.
What is CBCA?
Cannabichromene Acid (CBCA), is the acid, unactivated form of CBC. CBCA occurs naturally in the cannabis plant and converts to CBC when exposed to heat.
The Benefits of CBC
Although there have only been a handful of studies conducted on CBC, they indicate plenty of potential CBC use benefits, including:
Improving neurogenesis
Anti-inflammatory
Anti-bacterial
Anti-cancer & Anti-tumor
Anti-depressant
More research and studies need to be conducted to prove the viability of CBC for these indications for pharmaceutical and OTC applications. As with any CBD supplement, cosmetic, or topical, no structure, functions, or drug claims can be made. Most frequently, CBC is marketed for use as a painkiller, mood improver, or neuroprotectant. There are also considerations for CBC’s use in skincare product formulations to help soothe acne.
Is CBC the Same as CBD?
The short answer is no.
Although their benefits may appear similar, the molecular structure of CBC is different from that of CBD. Studies also indicate that CBC has a particular affinity for TRPV1 and 5-HT1A receptors, indicating that it could be a more effective choice than CBD for inflammatory pain. With more clinical research, CBC could also stand out as an anti-cancer and anti-tumor treatment, although more studies are needed to confirm this.
Creating Formulations with CBC
The ensemble effect is a popular theory that considers the unique potential of cannabinoids when purposefully selected and used in combination with one another to address specific need states like pain, anxiety, or sleep. Since CBC only activates CB2 receptors, this cannabinoid is often found in formulas combined with other cannabinoids, such as CBD. Studies have shown that CBC may offer unique benefits when used in formulations with supplementary cannabinoids.
A good product formulator will consider the purpose, function, and benefits of each ingredient and understand how each ingredient works in collaboration to create an effective product.
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References:
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El-Alfy, Abir T et al. “Antidepressant-like effect of delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol and other cannabinoids isolated from Cannabis sativa L.” Pharmacology, biochemistry, and behavior vol. 95,4 (2010): 434-42. doi:10.1016/j.pbb.2010.03.004
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Julia, Nina. “What Is CBC Oil Good For? Benefits, Uses, & Effects.” CFAH, CFAH, 24 May 2022, https://cfah.org/what-is-cbc-oil/#:~:text=CBC%20can%20be%20used%20to,%2C%20improved%20mood%2C%20and%20neuroprotection.
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